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CHARGE, 

ADDRESSED TO THE CLERGY 
OF THE 

•PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCH 

IN 

THE EASTERN DIOCESE, 
Delivered 

BEFORE THE BIENNIAL CONVENTION, IN PORTS. 
MOUTH, N. H. SEPT. 28, 1814 ; 

AND PUBLISHED BY THEIR REQUEST'. 

TO WHICH IS PREFIXED, * 

A PASTORAL LETTER. 



BY 

ALEXANDER V. GRIS WOLD, D. D, 

BISHOP OF THE DIOCESE. 



BOSTON : 

PRINTED BY MUNROE, FRANCIS & PARKER, 
NO. 4, CORNHILL...1816. 



10 T'BE 



PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCHES* 

OF 

MASSACHUSETTS, RHODE-ISLAND, NEW-HAMP- 
SHIRE, AND VERMONT. 

DEARLY BELOVED IN THE LORD, 

The discourse, herewith presented unto 
you, was delivered more than a year since, 
and you may justly demand the reason of 
its appearance in public, and why at so late 
a period. There was at the time a vote of 
the Convention, requesting a copy for the 
press, which compliment was then declined 
from a consciousness that it possessed not 
merit sufficient to justify its publication. 
It has certainly at present no better claim to 
this honou r ; but circu instances have at le ngth 
constrained me, with much reluctance, to 



4 



PASTORAL LETTER', 



this measure, in hope that it may possibly, 
through the Divine blessing, be made, in 
some degree, the humble instrument of cal- 
ling your attention to a subject, in which the 
general cause of religion, and the interest of 
our Church especially, are much concerned. 
Some efforts have been made, and are still 
in agitation, by a few individuals, to form 
Missionary Societies, and to collect a little 
fund for sending the light and comforts of 
the gospel, among those who are destitute. 
We are far from believing that there is any 
peculiar repugnance to this good work, among; 
Christians of our communion : yet from some 
unhappy cause, it is a fact but too evident, 
that your serious attention , has not been duly 
engaged in this important subject. There is 
probably no other church by which it is so. 
much neglected, as by ours in this Diocese, 

In our Diocesan Convention, which met 
at Providence, Sept. 30th, 1812, it was 
" Voted, that the Bishop be requested to ap- 
point a Sunday annually, on which a contri- 
bution shall be made at each church within 
the Diocese, and transmitted by the Rector 
and Wardens thereof to the Treasurer of the 



PASTORAL LETTER. 



Trustees of Donations to the Protestant 
Episcopal Church, to be appropriated under 
the direction of the Bishop, to the supplying 
of vacant parishes with preaching and the 
printing and distributing of cheap tracts, ex- 
planatory of the doctrines and discipline of 
the Episcopal Church." Such a Circular 
Letter was accordingly sent to all the church- 
es in the Diocese, appointing Easter Sunday 
as the day on which such collections should 
annually be made. On the Easter following, 
most of the parishes complied with this re- 
quest of their Clerical and Lay Delegates: 
but, in the two years since, a few of them 
only appear to have given attention to this 
business. That an effort so laudable, and so 
well calculated to do good, has not been 
more successful, is much to be regretted by 
all pious Christians, and chiefly by those who 
are friends- to the Episcopal Church. To 
whom, or to what cause must our failure be 
ascribed ? Have the ministers of our church- 
es felt so little concern for the spread of the 
Gospel, and the salvation of mankind^asto 
neglect the proposing and encouraging of such 
contributions £ Or is it rather the fact, that 

A 2 



6 



PASTORAL LETTER 



the collections have been duly attempted, ancT ; 
in most of the Churches, none were found 
able, or none willing to contribute ? Is our 
disappointment owing to the want of zeal, or 
to the want of means ? 

In the Charge, which follows, the attempt 
is made to awaken our Churches to a sens^ 
of this momentous duty; and the hope is in* 
dulged, that no offence will be taken at line 
upon line, and precept added to precept. 
The efforts, made by other denominations of 
Christians, to propagate the Gospel, are a re- 
proach upon us ; and when we consider what 
they effect, it should encourage us the more 
to follow their good example. Is it to us 
only, that God has denied the ability of send- 
ing missionaries to preach his Gospel ? Are 
we of all men the most indigent ? Let the 
contribution be general,—- let each one give 
something, though it be but little, and the 
whole amount will be considerable. Very 
few are so destitute, that they can make no 
offering to God. Who will say, that he can- 
not give a mite ? A very little, applied to so 
excellent a purpose, may do much good : 
and if it be given freely and with pious inter*- 



PASTORAL LETTER* 



tion, no sacrifice — no work can be more ac- 
ceptable to God. He knows our wants — 
our abilities, and our hearts ; and we know 
who hath said, " If there be first a willing 
mind, it is accepted according to that a man 
hath, and not according to that he hath not." 
If the fault be in the mind ; if we have no 
zeal for the Lord's work; if we feel no sincere 
interest in the propagation of our holy faith, 
how can we hope, that he will give us pros- 
perity ? If, while others are sending their 
missionaries to the four winds of heaven, we 
will not provide for our own house, nor cul- 
tivate that part of the vineyard allotted for 
our labours, what less can we expect, than 
that the Lord should cast us out, and let his 
ground to other husbandmen. 

" But, beloved, we are persuaded better 
things of you — though we thus speak." We 
are persuaded, that this apparent indifference 
to Missionary labours is not from want of 
love to the Redeemer's Kingdom : we be- 
lieve, that you possess both the desire and 
the means of promoting its prosperity. Your 
serious attention has not been awakened to 
the importance of the subject. It is but re- 



PASTORAL LETTER; 



cently, if indeed it may be now said, that 
Protestants have been generally, and much 
engaged in this work. Too just has been 
the censure cast upon us all, by the Church 
of Rome, that, while we professed a purer 
faith, and more ardent zeal for the Gospel of 
Jesus Christ, the burthen of propagating it 
among the Heathen was left with them. It 
is a reproach, that we must bear in common, 
with the exception of the Moravian Brethren, 
whose zeal and persevering labours to con- 
vert the Heathen are above all praise.* 
Though we are late in the work, who will 
boast of being early ? We may yet tread on 
the heels of those, who are gone before. 
Our numbers are few, and thinly scattered 
over a large extent of country ; nor have we, 
till very lately, been so organized and united, 
as to attempt, with probability of success, 

* We may add also, the exceptions of two ancient and 
rery respectable Societies in England by members of the 
Established Church ; the one for propagating the Gospel 
in Foreign Parts, and the other, for promoting Christian 
Knowledge, which have laboured more than a century, 
with honour and muck usefulness. To the former, lor its 
fostering care of our Churches in this country, we are under 
the deepest obligations of gratitude and affection. 



PASTORAL LETTER. 



9 



any Missionary labours. But now, through 
Divine goodness, these obstacles are in part 
removed, — our Churches flourish : our num- 
bers increase, and we may conveniently 
unite, in any measures, to promote the cause 
of Christianity. The time is now fully come 5 
when we may and we ought to shew our 
faith, by our works ; the purity of our doc- 
trines, by our care to impart them to every 
creature." Should the present publication 
be instrumental in awakening your thoughts 
to this subject, its object will be attained. 
With this humble hope, has the following 
discourse been committed to the press, in 
which some of the considerations above sug- 
gested are much insisted upon. If we use 
plainness of speech, it is to those, who know 
that the excellence of spiritual food consists* 
not in its novelty, nor in the elegance of style 
in which it is served up ; but in its whole- 
some and nutritious nature. Nor is this 
Pastoral Address, if it may be allowed so hon- 
ourable a name, intended* as a censure for 
any past neglect : rather and most cordially, 
in behalf of the Church and the cause of re- 
ligion, do. we rendec grateful acknowledge 



TASTORAL LETTER. 



ments to those of you, whether parishes 0r 
individuals, who have contributed for our 
Missionary fund. Something considerable 
was collected, which has been, and we trust 
continues to be, the means of doing much 
good. 

The gospel has been preached and is now 
heard, in several small parishes, and some 
are likely to be preserved and raised up by 
your bounty. Even this little book is among 
the fruits, though the least worthy, of your 
liberality. As a body of Christians, we are 
very remiss in Missionary labours ; but there 
are individuals among us whose praise is, or 
ought to be, in all the Churches : whose lib- 
erality and zeal have, under God, been chief- 
ly instrumental in reviving the Church in 
these Eastern States, from its rapid decline. 
" Remember them, O my God, concerning 
this, and wipe not out their good deeds that 
they have done for the house of our God, 
and for the offices thereof."* Future gener- 
ations shall rise up and call them blessed. 
May they never want that comfort of peace 
and salvation, which they would charitably 
* Nehem, xiii. 14.* 



PASTORAL lETTER. 



IT 



impart to others. May the invaluable bles- 
sings, which instru mentally they dispense to 
perishing sinners, be rewarded seven fold 
into their own bosoms.* The object of this 
address is to call your serious attention to a 
subject, which has not been generally and 
duly considered. When you reflect how 
much it is the duty of Christians to promulgc 

'* In 1810, a Society was incorporated by the Legis- 
lature of Massachusetts, by the name of The Trustees of 
Donations to the Protestant Episcopal Church, About 
the same time, a number of gentlemen in Boston, by a 
liberal subscription, raised a sum of several thousand dol- 
lars, the commencement of a fund, which, as we have rea- 
son to hope, will, through the Divine blessing, be the in- 
strument of great good for many ages. The Trustees have 
also, by one of their bye-laws, voluntarily and most gen- 
erously obligated themselves to pay into their treasury the 
annual amount of five dollars each. With very great 
pleasure, we can now announce to the friends of our 
Church, that a donation of three thousand dollars, and 
another of two thousand dollars, have lately been made to 
our funds, by persons, who would not that their names 
should be known, as connected with these noble benefac- 
tions. But no modesty, we trust, will be able long to 
conceal names and deeds, so worthy of praise, and grate- 
ful remembrance. 



12 



PASTORAL LETTER. 



the gospel ; how great are its blessings to 
mankind : how many of our fellow creatures, 
and even of our fellow citizens, are yet des- 
titute of these blessings, and how little has 
been done to enlarge the borders of our 
Zion, in comparison of the efforts made and 
unceasingly making by other denominations, 
to advance the interest and increase the num- 
ber of their respective communions ; your 
concern will be more engaged, for the honour 
and the interest of ours, not only that we 
should bear our full share of evangelical la- 
bours ; but that the doctrines and formu- 
laries of our Church,may be displayed, among 
the standards of other Christian communi- 
ties ; and, that the people may be informed 
" concerning this sect," which in this country 
has been so much " spoken against." The 
most decided experience has fully shown, 
that this prejudice will yield to knowledge, 
and that those sincere believers, who are best 
acquainted with the Protestant Episcopal 
Church, are sure, with very few exceptions, 
to become its warmest friends. There is 
every reason to suppose, that thousands, not 
only of Christians, but of those who profess 



P4ST0RAL LETTER. 



IS 



no religion, though now much prejudiced 
against it, were they made acquainted with 
its true character, would rejoice in the purity 
of its tenets, and the efficacy of its apostolic 
administrations : not to mention the numbers 
(which to some would be astonishing) of 
those who are unacquainted, not only with the 
excellencies, but even with the name of the 
Episcopal Church. I am sensible, that we 
generally and very much disapprove of the 
means and artifices, too often used, to draw 
Christians from one denomination to another, 
and that we would not build on another man's 
foundation. But let us also shun the opposite 
extreme : let us not, through a false delica- 
cy, forbear to teach what we sincerely be- 
lieve. Let us modestly, and in the fear of 
God, propose our claims to orthodoxy ; 
preach the gospel, such as we think it to be, 
and let men judge, as the Lord shall direct, 
and their hearts be inclined. " I would have 
you wise unto that which is good, and simple 
concerning ev il." 

At the last Biennial Convention in Ports- 
mouth, it was voted still to request the par- 
ishes to continue their contributions at Easter, 

B 



14 PASTORAL LETTER. 

or some other Sunday, if to any of you anoth- 
er should be more convenient. A motion 
a> vas made for the establishment of a Mis- 
dry Society in the Diocese, the conside- 
ration of which is postponed to the next 
nifeetirrg of the Convention. Already has 
there been one established in Massachusetts ; 
but it is yet destitute of funds. A Missionary 
Society is aiso commencing in Rhode-Island 
for the purpose of propagating the gospel in 
that state. 

You see then how much it is my duty, at 
this time especially, to call your attention to 
this subject. From various coincident con- 
siderations, now is evidently the favourable 
ti^e for the encouragement of missionary la- 
bours. Never perhaps, since the apostles 
clays, has the Lord more clearly manifested 
his willingness to bless the faithful labours of 
any church. Let us take heed, that we re- 
ceive not this grace of God in vain. Many 
spiritual seasons we have lost ; let not this be 
added to the number. Let us be thankful to 
God for the many and great mercies already 
bestowed. Let us gladly cherish in our 
hearts a grateful remembrance of those pious 



PASTORAL LETTER. 



16 



benefactors of our Church, whom the Lord 
has made the instruments of that degree of 
prosperity, which it now enjoys. And let 
nothing be neglected which will perpetuate 
their memory, and transmit the memorial of 
their charity, and labour of love, to the remo- 
test generations. And why, we may well 
ask, is not the number of these bright con- 
stellations enlarged ? When we consider 
how much it is in the power of many in this 
way to confer such great and permanent ben- 
efit upon mankind ; how easily, not only by 
occasional contributions, but by testamentary 
distribution of property, for which they have 
no further use, and to which there is no rea- 
sonable claim, they might immortalize both 
their charity and their good name ; and yet 
how many, in such cases, though pious, and 
sincere friends to the prosperity of religion, 
have chosen rather to bequeath their estates 
wholly to those, who neither need, nor 
are thankful for the bequest ; to those, not 
^infrequently, who are really injured, and 
so netimes ruined by the sudden acquisition ; 
to what cause shall we ascribe such apparent 
forgetfulness of a Christian's duty ? May it 



16 PASTORAL LETTER. 

not in part be owing to our ingratitude ? be 
cause we do not, as we ought, cherish the 
remembrance of our benefactors ? For 
though men, in giving to religious uses, seek, 
or ought to seek, the honour of God, and the 
good, rather than the praise of men ; vet, 
while ungrateful, we are unworthy of benefits, 
and God in justice may w ithhold them from 
us. But chiefly, I fear, we neglect applying 
directly to Him, who is the true Source of all 
benefactions. A praying people God will 
bless. Let us humbly and devoutly look to 
him in prayer, that he will inspire us with a 
holy zeal for his glory, and the increase of his 
kingdom : That he will open the hearts of all 
our people, to whom he has given the means ; 
that, through his blessing, provision may be 
made for sending faithful ministers to preach 
his gospel to the poor, and to repair the w r aste 
places of Zion ; and that our Church may 
grow and prosper on the sure foundation of 
the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ him- 
self being ever and truly regarded as the 
chief Corner- Stone. 

Other subjects are briefly considered in the 
following discourse ; and they are not here 



PASTORAL LETTER. 



17 



passed in silence, because of less importance. 
Lest I should too much weary, or divide your 
attention, I have here called it to that point 
only, which is of the most immediate con- 
cern. As my situation and circumstances 
will not permit me to visit you, often as my 
inclination, and, perhaps, the good of the 
Churches may require, I may soon, should 
the Lord be pleased to continue my pastoral 
labours, avail myself of the facility, which the 
press affords, for some further communica- 
tions respecting other and not less necessary 
things. 

That the Lord may enlighten you in all 
knowledge, wisdom, and grace ; strengthen 
your hands to every good work ; and bless 
you with that comfort and peace which pas- 
seth knowl< dge, is the humble and earnest 
prayer of your pastor and friend, 

A. Vo GRISWOL1X 



P 18 f 



NOTE. 

Since writing the foregoing Address, I have received a 
letter from the Secretary of " The Church Missionary 
Society for Africa and the East," accompanied 
with a number of " books, which explain its objects and 
proceedings, and the general efforts which are making, 1 ' 
by members of the Established Church of England, " to 
pi jpagate the Christian faith among the Heathen ;" de- 
siring, in behalf of the Committee, " to interest the Epis- 
copal Church of the United States 1 ' in the same good 
work ; and kindly offering 44 to render any aid to such 
efforts in this great cause, as we may be inclined to 
maVe." From these communications it appears, that a 
zeal for propagating the Gospel is rapidly increasing in the 
Church ot England, which promises great success. Soon, 
no doubt, will that Church, as she ought, take the lead in 
this holy warfare ; and from her means and advantages, 
through the Divine blessing, may reasonably be expected 
the most happy effects. Thus have we another call, and 
a loud one, to this glorious work. A powerful Ally nobly 
offers to take us by the hand, and conduct our more feeble 
steps to the immense field., which now lies open to Mis- 
sionary labours. Let us then immediately accustom our 
hands to labour in the smaller, but not less fertile vineyard 
around us. And let us rejoice in Him, who thus teaches 
our " fingers to fight the good fight of faith." 44 Let the 
praises of God be in our mouth, and a two-edged sword ?K 
s * of the Spirit, which is the word of God," " in our 
hands," AMEN, 



CHARGE, 

ADDRESSED 

TO THE CLERGY OF THE PROTESTANT EPlSCOPAji 
CHURCH IN THE EASTERN DIOCESE; 

Delivered before the Biennial Convention, in Portsmouth, Sepk 
28, 1814 ; and published by their request 

REVEREND BRETHREN IN CHRIST, 
AND CHRISTIAN FRIENDS : 

The twenty-third canon of the General 
Convention makes it the duty of every Bishop 
of our Church in these United States to de- 
liver " Charges to the Clergy of his Dio- 
cese." This duty, in the events of Divine 
Providence, has devolved upon one the least 
worthy to address, you on such an occasion, 
and who, at the present time, would rather 
hear, than speak. But, called as I am to this 
office, it is fruitless to waste your time with 



20 



BISHOP GRISWOLD's CHARGE 



apologies, or to anticipate those defects, which 
too soon will be apparent. The discourse, 
which is well heard, " with an honest and 
good heart," and faithfully applied to practi- 
cal purposes, is seldom wholly unprofitable ; 
and this good result may at least be expected 
from the following observations. It will be 
attempted to show the state and progress of 
our spiritual labours, and direct your atten- 
tion to some of those very important duties, 
to which, as ministers of Jesus Christ, and 
stewards of the mysteries of God, we are now 
more especially called. And this will be at- 
tempted with a reverential respect to that 
awakening and comprehensive admonition of 
the Holy Ghost to the church in Sardis, writ- 
ten in the Revelation of St. John iii. 1, 2, 
most applicable indeed, and most awakening 
to myself ; but an admonition, in which 
none who are Christians can be uninterested, 
and in which all, who are preachers of the 
Gospel, must have a deep concern : " I know 
thy works, that thou hast a name that thou 
livest and art dead. Be watchful, and 
strengthen the things which remain, that are 
ready to die." 



TO THE CLERGY OF HIS DIOCESE. 



21 



First of all we ought, brethren, and most 
earnestly, to call for united and fervent ac- 
knowledgments of gratitude and praise to the 
Father of mercies, and our Lord Jesus Christ, 
that this Convention is permitted once more to 
meet, under circumstances, so auspicious to 
the continued peace and prosperity of our com- 
munion. When we reflect on the many and 
complicated discouragements and obstacles, 
under which the formation of this Diocese 
commenced ; the diminished and declining 
state of our churches ; the unsocial habits of 
our brethren, from their remote and unorgan- 
ized situation ; while the avails of the prop- 
erty, which had been charitably designed for 
religious purposes, were, in a great degree, 
diverted into other channels, and alienated 
from the use intended by the pious Donors : 
— and when we further consider, notwith- 
standing these impediments, what, and how 
much beyond our expectation has been our 
prosperity : what blessing has attended the 
few zealous efforts which have already been 
made ; what unanimity has prevailed in our 
counsels; what success attended our measures, 
must we not see, and can we hesitate to ac 



BISHOP GRISWOLd's CHARGE 



knowledge the hand of God, and the special 
favour of his kind Providence ? How ought 
this earnest of his goodness to awaken our 
zeal, and animate us to greater and persever- 
ing exertions ! Our work is but commen- 
ced. How vast the field which opens before 
us ! The harvest truly is great, and the la- 
bourers few. To us few, reverend brethren, 
has it pleased the Lord to commit the care 
of so large a portion of his vineyard. We 
are appointed watchmen on this hill of Zion. 
Like the tribe of Levi, under the law, our 
duty and privilege it is to encamp " round 
about the Tabernacle of testimony." And 
while we thankfully acknowledge the hand of 
God in his mercies past, let us not forget the 
duties neglected, and the work still undone. 

And here is presented a less pleasant view : 
here we behold ruins and desolation, and of 
" the things, which remain," many " that are 
ready to die." Let us view the present con- 
dition of our Churches, not to compliment 
ourselves with the little that we may have 
done, nor to solace our minds with the flour- 
ishing state of a few solitary plants in so large 
a field : but rather to deplore the desolations. 



TO THE CLERGY OF HIS DIOCESE. 



23 



which overspread the land ; to humble our- 
selves for seasons neglected, and by redoubled 
diligence and zeal to redeem the time, which 
has been lost. 

Among the things, which demand your wi- 
sest counsels and most vigorous efforts, stand 
first and most conspicuous the small number 

of our churches ; the declining state of some, 
which yet remain ; and the still less number of 
ministers to labour in them. From the last 
of these evils evidently have proceeded, in no 
small degree, the other two. Many oppor- 
tunities have passed away, and now are lost, 
where, in various parts of these four States, 
churches with large and respectable congre- 
gations might have been establibhed ; but, 
through want of clergymen to encourage the 
wishes, animate the zeal, and lead the devo- 
tions of the people, necessity has compelled 
them to form religious connextions less agree- 
able to their choice and belief. In other in- 
stances, and they are not few, efforts are still 
making by pious individuals, or by small or- 
ganized societies, to commence, or to con- 
tinue their existence as Episcopal Churches ; 
but there are no ministers of Christ to second 



^4 bishop griswold's charge 

their exertions ; to preach the word, and ad- 
minister among them in holy things. Clouds 
of despondency darken around them ; their 
efforts languish, and their zeal is " ready to 
die." And, notwithstanding the few bright 
exceptions, which enliven the scene, we may 
well take up the lamentation of the prophet, 
and bewail " that the ways of Zion do 
■mourn ;" " her gates are desolate ;" her 
pleasant things decay ; " her people sigh" 
while " they seek their bread ;" — while they 
feel the " famine of hearing the word •of 
Gad." What is highly necessary to the in- 
crease and prosperity of the Church in every 
Diocese is peculiarly so in this : a compe- 
tent number of clergymen, endued with 
knowledge, piety, and zeal. Ministers of 
Christ we need, who possess the Spirit of 
their divine Master, and emulate the fidelity 
of his first apostles ; who have a serious con- 
cern for the salvation of mankind ; a deep 
sense of the truths which they teach, and 
who illustrate and enforce their heavenly doc- 
trine, by their own good example. We need 
those, who will " seek first the Kingdom of 
Cod and his righteousness :" whose meat 



TO THE CLERGY OF HIS DIOCESE. 



25 



and drink it is to do his will : who can re- 
nounce the world for Christ's sake, and pre- 
fer his glory to their own. In Churches, well 
established, a very moderate share of these 
necessary things ; — a decent deportment, and 
formal routine of official duties, may preserve 
them from decline. But here we have to 
strengthen the things which remain : we 
have to build up the waste places of Zion ; 
to repair the ruins of what is decayed ; nay, 
to build anew from the foundation. There 
is still, in many places, a call for our labours, 
where, by proper means and due attention, 
new churches of our Communion may yet, 
with the Divine blessing, be raised up ; where 
we may apparently be very instrumental in 
promoting the general interests of good mor- 
als and true religion ; of extending the Re- 
deemer's Kingdom, and the Knowledge and 
comforts of his Salvation ; and contributing to 
the increase and stability of public happiness 
and social order. 

It is a duty then, highly incumbent, breth- 
ren, on us, whom the Lord has set as watch- 
men on this portion of Zion's towers, by all 

possible means to supply this deficiency 
c 



20 



BISHOP GRISWOLd's CHARGE 



of labourers ; by praying fervently and daily, 
that the Lord of the harvest will send them ; 
by encouraging worthy clergymen to come 
amongst and continue with us, and by bring- 
ing forward suitable candidates for the holy 
ministry : remembering however, that their 
qualifications are far more essential, than their 
numbers. Those, who have not the necessa- 
ry foundation of inward piety and love of 
God; — who appear not, from conscientious 
motives and a deep sense of its importance, 
to be seriously and zealously engaged in the 
sacred cause, however splendid or popular 
may be their talents, will be of little real use 
in any Church, and least of all in ours. 
There are those, we fear, and their numbers 
not few, who run to this work before they are 
sent : who enter the sacred ministry, without 
a due sense of its nature, and of the awful 
responsibility attached to the office. Those, 
most worthy and best qualified, are often the 
most diffident ; and such should be sought 
for and encouraged to devote themselves to 
God. We need such, as have the good of 
religion more at heart, than its emoluments : 
those, who follow Christ for his sake ; who 



TO THE CLERGY OF HIS DIOCESE, 



c 27 



are willing to labour, before they reap ; — to 
make some sacrifice in the Redeemer's cause, 
that the poor may have the Gospel preached 
unto them. 

It is a further duty, incumbent on us, in 
which however we can do but little without 
the aid of our lay brethren and the people 
of our congregations, to supply such Church- 
es as are poor and destitute, with the preach- 
ing of the word, the administration of the 
sacraments, and other means of religious edi- 
fication. In our last Biennial Convention, 
some laudable measures were adopted for ef- 
fecting this charitable work. By collections 
in our Churches it was intended to raise a 
little fund to employ Missionaries within this 
Diocese ; and scarce in any part of the world 
can they more be needed. This promised 
us the means, in some degree, of carrying the 
Gospel to those, who seldom hear it ; and of 
extending essential and permanent benefits to 
manv small and vacant parishes. Nor did 
our success, the first year, disappoint our 
humble expectations. But, since, the result 
has been painfully discouraging. Has this 
falling-off been occasioned by the pressure of 



28 



BISHOP GRISWOLD's CHARGE 



the times ? or is it owing, Brethren, to our 
own remissness in not setting before our con- 
gregations the importance of the duty, and 
the great benevolence of the object ? We 
surely cannot suppose, that the people of our 
flocks are less liberal, than other Christians, 
The testimonies of a generous and charitable 
spirit, so great and so often repeated, which 
we have seen and received, forbid us to as- 
cribe this failure to sordid principles. Is it 
not rather to be feared, that we have not faith- 
fully called them to this duty ? that we have 
not duly set before them its importance ? 
Have we laboured, as we ought, to awaken in 
them a spirit of love for the souls of men ? 
a desire to evangelize the world, to extend 
the Redeemer's Kingdom into distant lands, 
and communicate the consolations of the ever- 
lasting Gospel to those who sit in darkness 
and the shadow of death ? Is it not the fact, 
that our own hearts are cold in this glorious 
w T ork ? Are we not too indifferent to the 
spiritual famine, by which our fellow crea- 
tures are daily perishing ? It is our Lord's 
will, that we " preach the Gospel to every 
creature — that none should perish through 



TO THE CLERGY OF II IS DIOCESE. 29 

want of knowledge. Such is the compassion 
of the Divine Saviour for dying sinners, that 
he has given commission for proclaiming 
the good tidings of his salvation to all the 
people and nations of the earth. 

True it is, that each minister of Christ has 
his peculiar charge ; — his family of Christians 
to provide for, — a little flock committed to his 
care. In this charge it is indeed of the first 
importance, that he befound faithful: — thatthe 
blessings of religion be diffused through every 
part of his cure, and each cottage be consoled 
wtih the salvation of our God. But we are 
bound to extend our care, as the Lord shall 
give us means, to other parts of his vineyard, 
and call upon our flocks to assist us. In this 
labour of love, should every Christian, ac- 
cording to his state and abilities, unite. And 
what Christian will say, that he cannot con- 
tribute something, to so good a work ? And 
who, that is able, will refuse to assist us ? 
Freely have we received : freely 1st us give. 
Shall any 9 to whom the arm of the Lord is 
revealed ; — who are called to a knowledge of 
Divine grace, and enjoy themselves the bles- 
sings of the Gospel, feel no solicitude to dis- 
cs 



30 bishop grtswold's charge 

pcnse the same blessings to all whom they 
equally concern ? Are we refreshed, at the 
fountain of living waters, with bread enough 
and to spare, and yet have no compassion for 
those who are perishing with hunger ? who 
are parched in a thirsty land where no water 
is ? In all those noble efforts, which are daily 
making, to diffuse the light of the holy Scrip- 
tures, and the knowledge of salvation to the 
remotest parts of the earth, — to the darkest 
regions of the habitable world, shall our 
Church only take no part ? Shall we, who 
ought, from the purity of our doctrines, and 
the charity which we profess to lead the wayj 
in every good w 7 ork, be the last to engage in 
the best of all works, the spreading of the Sa- 
viour's Gospel ? Far from sending it to dis- 
tant regions, we neglect to promulgate it 
among ourselves. Considering our advanta- 
tages, and how much the Lord has smiled 
upon us, no part, perhaps, of the Christian field 
is less cultivated, than this in which we are 
appointed to labour. 

Happily for the general state of religion, 
and to the great honour of the Christian name, 
the disciples of Jesus -are, at the present day, 



TO THE CLERGY OF HIS DIOCESE. 



31 



awakening to a sense of this duty, and send- 
ing the light of the Gospel to those who sit 
in darkness. The walls of Zion, we trust, 
are extending on its true foundation and chief 
Corner-stone : on " the apostles and prophets, 
and Jesus Christ himself." His kingdom is 
enlarged by " the sword of the spirit which is the 
word of God." Most astonishing have been 
the exertions, and not less wonderful the ef- 
fects of Bible Societies, now extended, or 
rapidly extending through the greater part of 
the Christian world. This is an era of Gos- 
pel light, surpassed only by that of its first 
propagation : and the great miracle of the 
iday of Pentecost is almost repeated. Again 
do the apostles, though all Galileans, " preach 
the Gospel to every creature." Parthians 
and Medes — Cretes and Arabians — the dwel- 
lers in Africa, and the remotest parts of Asia, 
" hear them speak, in their ozvn tongues ', the 
wonderful works of God." Much is already 
done, and more, we may hope, w ill be speed- 
ily effected, by the propagation of the written 
word. It will tend, we may trust, to what is 
so much by all good men to be desired, the 
union of Christians in faith and affection — in 



32 



bishop grisv/old's charge 



doctrine and practice. In proportion as they 
receive these living waters pure from the holy 
fountain, they will be refreshed with the 
same comforts, and imbibe the same spirit. 
With the divine blessing it will facilitate that 
for which we daily, and, it is to be hoped, most 
sincerely pray ; " that all, who profess and 
call themselves Christians, may be led into 
the way of truth, and hold the faith in unity 
of spirit ; in the bond of peace, and in right- 
eousness of life." 

But still to those, who have the Bible in 
their hands, may be applied the words of St. 
Paul to the Romans : " How shall they be- 
lieve in him, of whom they have not heard ? 
and how shall they hear, without a preacher ? 
and how shall they preach, except they be 
sent ?" The holy Scriptures, excellent as 
they are, will be, in a great measure, but a 
dead letter to those who have no spiritual 
teachers. God in his wisdom has appointed 
the ordinance of preaching, as the ordinary 
means of conversion, and of instructing his 
people in truth and righteousness. Unques- 
tionably it is the duty of all, like the wise 
Bereans, to search the scriptures, and to learn 



TO THE CLERGY OF II IS DIOCESE. 



33 



directly from the pen of inspiration, what 
God has taught : but will they ordinarily do 
this, and will they sufficiently understand 
what they read, except, like the same Bereans, 
they have first heard the word spoken ? ex- 
cept, by messengers sent of God, their con- 
sciences are awakened to the serious concerns 
of their future state ? In those parts only of 
the spiritual vineyard, where faithful minis- 
ters " labour in word and doctrine," can we 
expect, in much abundance, " the fruit of 
good living." 

But justice requires us to acknowledge, 
that this duty has not been wholly neglected. 
Not only is the Bible sent to instruct the ig- 
norant, but teachers also to bear it : to pub- 
lish its sacred contents, and to preach the 
Gospel in this country and in foreign nations, 
where Christ before had not been named. 
In America, and in England, there are Mis- 
sionary Societies, which have manifested a 
zeal for propagating the Gospel, becoming 
those who profess it ; — becoming those who 
feel its blessings, and are actuated by its 
heavenly principles. But the harvest is im- 
mensely great, and the labourers yet but very 



34 



BISHOP GRISWOLD S CHARGE 



few. With sorrow too and with shame 
must we add, that our Church has taken but 
little part in this good work. There is no 
greater stigma, which has justly been affixed 
to the Established Church of England, and 
sullies that reputation, which so eminently 
she has acquired in the Christian world, than 
her apathy in regard to propagating her faith. 
In all manner of charities her children much 
abound ; but in this department — in this 
work of evangelists, they have been unac- 
countably deficient. They contribute freely 
to promote the general work, but have done 
little to extend their own communion. In 
few of the British colonies has Episcopacy, 
till very lately, been completely organized. 
In these States, before the revolution, while 
other denominations of Christians enjoyed 
the full establishment of their respective sys- 
tems, the Episcopal Churches here were not 
permitted to have a Bishop. But now we 
rejoice to bear testimony that the Church of 
England is awaking from this lethargy, and 
arising in her strength. A voice is heard 
from the pale of the Establishment, exhorting 
her members to missionary labours — a voice 



TO THE CLERGY OF HIS DIOCESE. 



35 



that speaks not in vain : and soon, no doubt, 
will she appear in the foremost ranks of the 
evangelizing host. 

But there is one portion of the Christian 
Church still delinquent, and however humili- 
ating may be the confession, truth will com- 
pel us to acknowledge, that it is this portion 
to which we belong : even the Protestant 
Episcopal Church in the United States. It 
must however be admitted, that there are here 
some recent and honourable exceptions. 
Several of our sister Churches in the other 
States are now making very considerable ef- 
forts to spread the Gospel. Where then shall 
we find a Christian community, so little en- 
gaged in extending its faith as ours ? And 
yet the Lord, patient in goodness, and abun- 
dant in mercy has most evidently manifested 
a willingness to bless our labours. But how 
long will he be w 7 ith us ? how long will he 
suffer us ? Can we still expect his favour, 
while our zeal, if indeed it be among 
" the things which remain, 5 ' is thus lan- 
guishing and " ready to die PV 

Now then is it high time to wake out of 



36 



BISHOP GRISWOlVs CHARGE 



sleep. Let us not by our indolence, tempt 
the Lord to forsake us. 

Is it not a fact, that we place improper reli- 
ance upon our orthodoxy, as supposing that 
truth will spread of itself and bear away the 
prize ; while others on a worse foundation, 
by using better diligence, build with more 
rapidity ? How is it to be lamented that 
knowledge and zeal, which God has joined 
together, should so often by man be put asun- 
der ! Divine truth was never popular in this 
world, and never will be popular, till the na- 
ture of man is changed. While the true la- 
bourer sleeps, the enemy, ever vigilant, sows 
tares ; and when sown, they take such root 
that they must grow. They who are zealous 
in propagating the doctrines of Christ, though 
with some mixture of error, will be more 
successful, and indeed more useful, than oth- 
ers who, with a sounder creed, are lukewarm. 
If we would maintain that rank among the 
champions of the cross to which we think 
ourselves entitled, let us not rely on the paper 
arms of canons, creeds and articles ; but put on 
the whole armour of God : letus press forwards 
amidst the perils of the holy warfare, the first 



TO THE CLERGY OF HIS DIOCESE. 37 

in labours, or not the first in fame. When 
Peter the apostle was going forth to the good 
fight of faith, how did his Master direct him 
to distinguish his love above that of others P 
By his fidelity in dispensing the words of 
life : " feed my lambs — feed my sheep." 
Those who thus " rule well," and " labour 
in the word and doctrine," with fidelity, shall 
" be counted worthy of double honour," 
Let us be so distinguished. Let us wake 
out of this sleep. It is time that this too just 
reproach of indolence should be taken away 
from our Church, and that we, who profess 
the purest faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, 
should no longer be the coldest in zeal for 
enlarging the borders of his kingdom. It is 
time, that we show our faith by our works. 
Is it not our duty to impart the bread of this 
life to the hungry ? And is it less the duty 
of Christians to make known the will of God 
to the ignorant, and to rescue thoughtless 
sinners from misery and shame ? Was the 
command of Christ, to preach his Gospel to 
every creature, limited to his first apostles ? 
Has the merciful Saviour, no love — no grace 
— no concern for sinners at the present day ? 



38 



BISHOP GRISWOLD's CHARGE 



Is it not the duty still, of every minister, and 
every Christian, according to his means and 
opportunities, to sound abroad these tidings 
of salvation ? Was it necessary for the first 
disciples to labour so abundantly in word 
and doctrine ; — must they encounter perils 
by land, and perils by water ; — be in season — 
out of season: boldly withstand persecution, 
flames, and death ; and reprove, rebuke, 
and exhort with all long suffering ; and is it 
now become of so little concern ; — are the 
souls of men now so worthless, and their sal- 
vation of so small account, as to give us no 
anxiety or solicitude ! as not to be worth the 
sacrifice of a few hours from the year, or a 
few pence from our abundance ! u Tell it not 
in Gath." Why did our blessed Saviour 
suffer such indignities, and the cruel death of 
the cross? why, withsuch awakening concern, 
Send his Gospel to all the nations of the earth ? 
to what purpose were all the labours and suf- 
ferings and martyrdom of apostles, and evan- 
gelists and prophets, except it be a matter of the 
utmost importance that men should hear and 
believe the Gospel ? except it be an indis- 
pensable duty, and most benevolent work in 
all Christians, to impart to mankind the 
knowledge and the means of salvation. 



TO THE CLERGY OF HIS DIOCESE. 3& 

But I am not calling your attention now to 
the pagan world, nor to those who, in distant 
quarters of the globe, still sit in darkness. 
God be praised, that they are not altogether 
neglected : that the Lord has raised up those, 
who are daily dispensing his saving word to 
the ends of the earth. Their praise is in all 
the Churches ; and the Lord shall reward 
their labour of love. My present views, if 
more humble, I trust are not of a less useful 
nature. In no part of the world is a better 
field, nor perhaps a larger, for missionary la- 
bours, than in our own country, and even in 
this Diocese. Let us provide first for our 
own house. Here shall we find work, more 
than our hands at present are able to do. 
But let our charity be unbounded. Let it be 
our care and delight, as opportunity may 
offer, to impart to all others those invaluable 
blessings, which on us the Lord has so freely 
and so bountifully bestowed. Let our Church 
excel as much in her zeal for God, as we 
trust she does in the purity of her faith and 
her worship. Let not the minister of Christ 
be wholly employed in trimming the little 
lamp of his parochial cure ; let us not be 
content with feeding the fire ol heaven upon 



40 



BISHOP ©RISWOLD S CHARGE 



our own altars ; but let the sacred flame be 
extended, and its light shine in darker regions. 
Let us do the work of evangelists. Let the 
work begin in our hearts, and in our families ; 
let it extend to our friends and neighbours, 
and to the humblest cottage of our respective 
parishes ; nor let it cease till it pervades our 
country, and all the ends of the world have 
seen the salvation of our God. 

Permit me also at this time to direct your 
attention to the provisions and duties requir- 
ed in the 45th Canon. The neglect of them 
in this Diocese has already disgraced us in 
the General Convention, and whilst contin- 
ued, must defeat, in no inconsiderable degree, 
the object of the Canon. The utility of these 
provisions, when duly carried into effect, and 
the ill consequences of disregarding them, 
you may learn from the Canon itself, and also 
from the Pastoral Address, of the House of 
Bishops, in the year of our Lord 1811. It 
will suffice, I trust, to remind you, that every 
minister of our Church ought faithfully to 
keep such true records of his parochial trans- 
actions, and yearly transmit them to the State 
Conventions, as the rules of our Church re- 
quire. It is not to be supposed, that any 



TO THE CLERGY OF HIS DIOCESE. 



41 



clergyman is so culpably inattentive to his 
duty, as to neglect the keeping of such re- 
cords. The trouble of sending them to the 
Convention, or to the Bishop of the Diocese, 
is very little, in comparison with the advanta- 
ges which it will produce. Suffer- me then, 
brethren, to intreat and to enjoin it upon 
you to be punctual in your compliance with 
this Canon : let us never appear again in the 
General Convention, without these returns, 
regular and complete. 

On the very important subject of confir- 
mation, and the duties connected with it, there 
is much more to be said than the present time 
and occasion will admit. Here we are loud- 
ly called to strengthen the things which re- 
main. The administration of this apostolic 
ordinance has, for an obvious reason, been but 
recently introduced into the greater part of 
this Diocese ; and our people generally are 
not sufficiently acquainted with its nature and 
design, nor do they appreciate as they ought 
its practical utility. To the praise of God's 
goodness and grace, we must acknowledge, 
that this rite has already been much blessed 
among us. You know well, that in the par- 
tial and imperfect practice, which it has al- 
d2 



42 



BISHOP GRISWOLd's CHARGE 



ready obtained, how very much it has appar- 
ently contributed to the increase of piety and 
true godliness. But neither the excellence 
nor the authority of this institution will be 
generally understood, nor can we reap the 
full benefit of the ordinance, till our congre- 
gations — our youth especially, are well in- 
structed in its nature and design, and their 
duty respecting it ; that they may not, as is 
now too much the case, neglect, at the suita- 
ble age, to receive confirmation ; nor, which is 
much more essential, receive it without suffi* 
cient instruction in the rudiments of Christi- 
anity, and the due preparation of repentance 
towards God, and fdith towards the Lord 
Jesus Christ. It is lamentable to find, and it 
is painful now to mention, that no inconsider- 
able part of those, who frequent our religious 
assemblies, scarce know what we mean, when 
calling upon them to be confirmed. In our 
pastoral visitations, we " bring strange things 
to their ears." " When for the time they 
ought to be teachers, they have need that we 
teach them — which be the first principles of 
the oracles of God." It is true that, in the 
baptismal office, the Sponsors are told that 
the child, when duly qualified, must " be 



TO THE CLERGY OP HIS DIOCESE. 43 

brought to the Bishop to be confirmed by 
him." Is this sufficient instruction for the 
performance of a very important duty, and at 
the distance of several years ? And even of 
this, little as it is, are congregations, we may 
fear, sometimes deprived, by the administer- 
ing of baptism after they have retired ; or 
perhaps in the vestry room, or a private house. 

Sermons also, I gladly acknowledge, and 
excellent ones, are preached on this subject, 
before most of our congregations ; but so 
rarely, and in such seasons, as to be very in- 
adequate to the desired effect. It is, if I mis- 
take not, much the practice to preach on this 
subject at those seasons only, once perhaps 
in three years, when the ordinance is to be 
administered, and but a short time before ; 
which discourse some do not hear ; others 
do not sufficiently understand, nor do any 
have due time to consider of the subject. 
The natural consequence is, that a very con^ 
siderable part of those who ought to be con* 
firmed, either postpone it for want of infor- 
mation, or of time to prepare ; or, what is 
much worse, they perform it without such 
knowledge and sincere devotion, as are nec- 
essary to obtain the spiritual benefit of the 



44 



BISHOP GRISWOLD's CHARGE 



ordinance. They who thus lose one oppor- 
tunity, perhaps before another occurs arc 
dead, or absent, or for the like reason still 
postpone it ; or, what is worst of all, may have 
devoted themselves to the world and its van- 
ities, and become callous to all religious im- 
pressions. 

These, brethren, are not imaginary things ; 
but evils which are often realized. For refor- 
mation, under God, we must look to you. 
Let more time and care be systematically ap- 
propriated to this branch of religious instruc- 
tion. It is a duty, and a very important one, 
of every parish minister, to see that those of 
his charge, who are of proper age and stand- 
ing for confirmation, be well informed of its 
use and excellence ; that they may be in 
constant preparation to witness that good 
confession before God and his Church, when 
opportunity shall call them. Be careful also 
that none are presented for confirmation be- 
fore they have attained to an age and under- 
standing capable of a reasonable faith in God, 
and a knowledge of our salvation in Jesus 
Christ. Let none be urged to the duty 
against their will. Their offering themselves 
to God is to be their own act, and should be 
their free choice ; " for God," as in all 



TO THE CLERGY OF HLS DIOCESE. 



45 



things, so especially in this, " loveth a cheer- 
ful giver." Let none be encouraged to come 
to this ordinance, who appear not to be influ- 
enced by religious motives; — by a humble, 
sincere, and devout desire to serve God and 
to obtain his blessing. You know well what 
reproach has been cast upon our Church, and 
how much this holy ordinance has been 
brought into disrepute from inattention to this 
most essential part of our duty. Not that we 
are to suppose this evil exists, or ever exis- 
ted in our Church, in such degree as unchar- 
itable adversaries have represented : but, that 
so great an evil should exist in any degree ; 
that such a reproach should be ever cast, and 
we unable to refute it, is a humiliating reflec- 
tion. By well doing, let us put to silence the 
ignorance of those, who unjustly censure ; and 
evince to pious and candid Christians, of all 
denominations, that we put no vain confidence 
in outward acts of religion ; nor ascribe any 
efficacy to our administrations, repugnant to 
the word of God. We use the means, in 
humble reliance upon his promised grace ; 
but expect no spiritual blessings, except our 
hearts are prepared, through grace, to receive 
them* Let these things be so often and clear- 



46 



BISHOP GRISWOLD's CHARGE 



ly taught, and so uniformly practised, that 
none, who have ears to hear, and eyes to see, 
can misapprehend them. In the confirmation 
office, as also in that of baptism, are a fe\fr 
words in a sense somewhat different from 
their modern use.* These have perplexed 
some serious Christians who do not consid* 



* In the first prayer of the Confirmation Office, are the follow* 

ins: words : — " Amvghty and everlasting God, who hast vouchsaf- 
ed to regenerate these thy servants, with water and the Holy 
Ghost, and hast given u?Ho them forgiveness of all their sins.^ 
These wordshave re|erenccto their baptism, acknowledging Tiod's 
great mercies exhibited to mankind, and sealed to the faithful in 
in that sacrament. We pretext not to judge the heart, or to know 
whose sins are forgiven of bod, or whose retained ; nor whether 
any one is certainly renewed in the spirit of his mind. But it is 
the belief of our Church, (as it is indeed of most other Churches, 
declared in their Standards ; — their Articles, Platforms and Con- 
fessions^ that baptism is the sign of regeneration, representing, by 
the washing of water, the forgiveness of sins, through Jesus Christ, 
and that M we also should walk in newness of ltte." A person 
may outwardly receive this 44 washing of regeneration," without 
44 the renewing of the Holv Ghost," — be may 44 be born of water, 
and not of the Spirit :" he may receive 44 the outward sign, or 
fonn in baptism, and not 44 the inward part, or thing signified." 
But in this prayer the ordinance is supposed to have been duly 
administered, and worthily received : it is supposed, that the per- 
sons present, desiring to be confirmed, have been truly baptized, 
according to the institution of Jesus Christ, with such fa^th and 
repentance, preceding or following as his Gospel requires. If 
this be the case (as it ought to be with ail, before they come to 
that ordinance.) they are regenerate, in the sense in which the 
word is used by our Church ; they are ingrafted into Christ's spir- 
itual kingdom, and their sins past are forgiven. In this sense we 
use these words of the prayer : we humbly acknowledge God's 
mercies, manifested to his people in the sacrament of baptism. 
And when persons have been baptized, and present themselves 
before the Lord's minister, desiriug publicity, in the presence of 
God, and the congregation of his people, to ratify and confirm the 
obligations of that sacrament, and acknowledge themselves bound 
to believe, and to do what they had undertaken, or their Sponsors 
had undertaken for them ; it is surely not improper for the Lord's 
minister, in this prayer, charitably* to suppose that these persons 
are sincere ;— *that the Lord's mercies, by them are thankfully 
received, according to his will. Farther than this, we presume 
liot to say that any are regenerate, or that their sins are forgiven, 



TO THE CLERGY OF HIS DIOCESE. 



47 



cr the ancient and scriptural sense in which 
we use them ; and the adversary takes ad- 
vantage by perverting it to excite a prejudice 
against us. Let those expressions be fre- 
quently and clearly explained to our congre- 
gations, who will then see that the objections 
so often raised are but " strifes of words" 

Parents also, and sponsors, should often be 
reminded of their duty, and exhorted and 
encouraged to be faithful in the important 
charge, committed to them by the Church of 
Christ : — to " see that their children are 
taught, so soon as they shall be able to learn, 5 " 
the solemn obligations, and also the inesti- 
mable privileges of the Christian covenant. 

And here we may number among the 
things which, though through God's goodness 
they yet remain, are ready to die, " sponsors in 
baptism" Perhaps no institution so wise and 
salutary was ever so neglected. Considering 
how very important it is that the children, 
who are made members of Christ, should be 
brought up in the nurture and admonition of 
the Lord ; our Church requires one at least, 
besides the Parents, to engage in this duty, 
it is expected certainly that the parents do 
iU* But in how many thousand instances 

* Parents are bound by nature, and by the word of God to d# 



45 



BISHOP GRISWOLd's CHARGE 



they do it not. They are taken away by 
death : or they journey into distant lands. 
From ignorance or some infirmity they may 
be incapable of teaching their children ; or 
from indolence or vice, indisposed to do it. 
How great then is the blessing to such chil- 
dren, that the Church has appointed one or 
more of its pious members to be their god- 
fathers, or godmothers : to be their spiritual 
parents in the Lord, and train them up in the 
paths of godliness ! But how deplorably in 
some instances are these promising fruits 
blasted, by the negligence of Sponsors ! 

Perhaps some will object, " If such be the 
duty of Sponsors, who would undertake it ?" 
Permit me rather to ask, what real Christian 
would not undertake it ? Will we do nothing 
for the Lord's sake ? Or will we be weary 
in well doing ? What charity, more benev- 
olent or acceptable, can adorn a disciple of 
Jesus Christ ? 

And not only parents and sponsors, but 
every Christian, according as he is able, 

this duty for their children, -without being their sponsors in bap- 
tism. The Church of Englatd, considering this, and also how of- 
ten, through indulgence to their children, and other failings they 
neglect to give them religious instruction, requires three sponsors 
for a child, neither of which shall be its parent Thislherefore 
is reqirr^d, not as some absurdly object, to deprive the parent of 
any right ; but to increase the certainty of benefit to his child. 



TO THE CLERGY OF HIS DIOCESE. 



49 



should assist in this, and all other good and 
charitable works. The most faithful minis- 
ter, and the most able, can do but little with- 
out the co-operation of his people. In every 
branch of his parochial duties, the assistance 
of the pious members of his Church is of 
vast importance, especially in teaching the 
rudiments of Christianity. 

I shall conclude with a few words respect- 
ing the state of piety and godliness in our 
congregations. Vital religion, through the 
Lord's goodness, is not, we humbly trust, 
decreasing in our Churches, but the contra- 
ry ; yet the deficiency of this one thu g need- 
ful is too obvious to need proof, and too es- 
sential to be passed in silence. We see, and 
it is painful to see, what wickedness still pre- 
vails in the world. And among those " who 
have a name that they live who are called 
Christians, it is not less lamentable to see so 
much love of the worlds and coldness towards 
God, and each other : to see such ignorance 
of Christ and of the holy Scriptures, where 
means and opportunities of acquiring relig- 
ious knowledge abound : — to see those doc- 
trines of the cross which are the hope of man, 
and u the power of God, and the wisdom of 



50 



BISHOP GRISWOLD's CHARGE 



God," degraded at the footstool of human 
reason ; to see, in a word, so little concern, and 
less zeal for those tenets, and sacred rites 
which chiefly distinguish the religion of our 
Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. With what 
awakened apprehension, my Reverend Breth- 
ren, — with what trembling solicitude should 
we reflect, that for these things we may be 
in some degree accountable ! If ungodliness 
prevails in our flocks, we are not released 
from the responsibility ; we have not deliv- 
ered our own souls, till we have given warn- 
ing, and declared the whole counsel of God, 
by our preaching and example. We are or- 
dained to be " the salt of the earth ; but if 
the salt have lost its savour" it is good for 
nothing. Our Divine Master has command- 
ed his Ministers to be wise as serpents, and 
harmless as doves : and no ministers, that he 
has e?Ver sent, have had more need than we 
of such prudence and innocency. We have 
to contend, not only with all the impediments 
and difficulties common to those who preach 
the Gospel ; but, unhappily, with the prejudi- 
ces of our Christian brethren of other denom- 
inations, against the Episcopal Church ; 
which prejudices, you well know, prevail, and 



TO THE CLERGY OF HIS DIOCESE. 



51 



in a very great degree, in most parts of these 
Eastern States. It is certain, that thousands 
and tens of thousands are led to believe, that 
we neglect the essentials of religion ; that we 
do not teach the depravity of human nature ; 
the necessity of conversion ; the renewal of 
the heart by the Holy Spirit ; and that we are 
justified, not by our works, but by our faith 
in the merits and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. 
Our Articles, you will say, may teach them 
the contrary. True : but they may not read 
our Articles ; or they may think, that we do 
not read them. Let us teach them the con- 
trary* Let the true doctrines of our Church, 
on these points, be clearly and often taught, 
according to their importance. Add line 
upon line, and precept upon precept, till pre- 
judice shall give place to conviction* In 
teaching our flocks, let us carefully endeav- 
our to lay the foundation of repentance, faith, 
and sincere piety. To instruct them in mor- 
al righteousness, without this foundation, 
is like building a house upon the sand. 

And let us " take heed to ourselves" as 
well as u to our doctrine." Let us be sure, 
that we possess that, which we pretend to dis- 
pense. Shall we preach " repentance towards 



52 bishop griswold's charge. 

God," while we live to the world ? or " faith 
towards the Lord Jesus Christ," while, by 
our own conduct, we put him to open shame ? 
How can we persuade others, by 11 the ter- 
rors of the Lord, except those terrors have 
awakened our own hearts to righteousness ? 
or impart to them comforts, which we have 
never felt ? Let us not only embrace the 
truth, as it is in Christ Jesus ; but adorn the 
doctrine of God in all things. Let us show 
by our own example, how men should walk 
and please him. Let us iabour not to please 
men, but to save them ; and evince, by our 
zeal for their spiritual interest, that we seek 
not theirs, but them If we would have 
them " so account of us as stewards of the 
mysteries of God," let us never forget, that 
" it is required in stewards, that a man be 
found faithful." 

That we may be so found ; and that the 
Churches, committed to our care, may in- 
crease in numbers, piety, and zeal, the Lord 
mercifully grant, through Jesus Christ : to 
whom, with the Father and the blessed Spir- 
it, be ascribed all glory and praise forev- 
er. Amen. 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



021 897 786 8, 



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